Prepare for yourLicence Hearingwith us!

A licensing hearing happens when objections are made to your licence application. A panel of three councillors will hear both sides, you (the applicant) and those objecting, then make a decision.

No - this is a self-representation package. We prepare all your materials so you can represent yourself effectively. We’ve found this works better, as applicants often present more persuasively than paid representatives. They show the committee that they genuinely need the licence to run their business and it’s a lot on the line for them.

The starting position is a presumption in favour of granting the licence. It’s up to those making objections to prove that granting it would likely cause problems. If your application is for a modest operation, the odds are in your favour. With a clear, factual presentation, most well-prepared applicants succeed. Our hearing pack is designed to help you do exactly that

The licensing sub-committee (usually 3 councillors) hears your case, objections from residents or responsible authorities (police, environmental health), and reviews all evidence. Each party presents their case, answers questions, and the committee decides whether to grant, refuse, or impose conditions on your licence. Decisions are typically announced the same day with written confirmation following.

Barnab charges £500 + VAT for complete hearing preparation including evidence bundle preparation, objector negotiation support, hearing bundle compilation, and strategic advice. You represent yourself at the hearing using our professionally prepared materials. This is significantly less than traditional solicitors who charge £1,500-£3,000+ VAT.

Yes, you can represent yourself at a licensing hearing. Barnab prepares all the evidence, hearing bundles, and documentation you need to present your case professionally. We provide strategic guidance on how to address objections and present your case effectively, making self-representation much more manageable.

Preparation includes: reviewing all objections and understanding concerns, gathering evidence (crime stats, noise assessments, operating schedules), preparing witness statements, creating a hearing bundle with all documents, drafting opening and closing statements, and identifying proposed conditions to address concerns. Barnab handles all preparation so you can confidently represent yourself at the hearing.

Evidence typically includes: operating schedule showing how you'll promote licensing objectives, crime statistics for the area, noise management plans, staff training records, CCTV specifications, age verification policies, dispersal policies, and witness statements from managers or security. The specific evidence needed depends on the objections raised. Barnab compiles all necessary evidence into a professional hearing bundle.

Yes. Barnab helps you negotiate with objectors (residents, police, environmental health) before the hearing to address their concerns through agreed conditions or operational changes. If concerns are resolved, objectors can withdraw their representations, potentially avoiding a hearing entirely. Early negotiation is key to successful outcomes.

If refused, you receive written reasons within 7 days. You can appeal to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days of the decision. Appeals are heard fresh (de novo) meaning the court reviews all evidence again. However, if you lose the appeal, you may be ordered to pay the other parties' legal costs, which can be substantial.

Most licensing hearings last 1-3 hours depending on complexity and number of objections. Simple cases with few objectors may be completed in under an hour. Complex cases with multiple responsible authorities and resident objections can take half a day. The sub-committee usually announces their decision the same day.